Severe winds reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled authorities to cancel in excess of 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The winds are affecting the complete southern region and southern sections of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting residences mostly in the southern region, though agencies report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been cancelled as a result of the gusts, while some roads and libraries are not operating.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Conditions
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been called a "mega strike", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced fire bans for concern about forest fires.
